Cloud Quiz

Test your knowledge of cloud types, and how you can use them to predict the weather. Pick your answer before advancing to the next slide to read the correct answer and learn a bit about the clouds shown.

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Q: As cool air lifts off the water and is held in place by the warmer air above, it creates a layer of stratus cloud. What can be expected within a few hours? A. Snow B. Clear to partly cloudy skies C. Thunderstorms

Q: Stratus clouds form when there is a temperature inversion. The hiker looks warm above the cloud. What can be expected of the weather below the cloud? A. It will be warmer. B. It will be cooler. C. It will be dark.

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Q: These hikers will most likely need their rain jackets. What kind of cloud is closing in? A. Nimbostratus B. Cirrus C. Altocumulus

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Q: These clouds are higher than altocumulus. What are they called? What can be expected later in the day? A. Cirrus; thunderstorms within 6-8 hours B. Nimbostratus; more sun C. Cirrocumulus; increasing winds aloft & possible changes in weather

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Q: How can you tell these are cirrostratus clouds? A. They are pink. B. They look like a high-altitude veil being drawn across the sky. C. They look puffy & appear at sunrise.

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Q: What are the tails and wisps of cirrus clouds made up of? A. Ice crystals B. Water droplets C. Wind

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Q: If this cumulonimbus cloud seems to be approaching on your hike, what's the best course of action? A. Don't worry, be happy B. Continue until the rain starts, then begin descending C. Retreat or find shelter

Q: Seeing these small, puffy altocumulus clouds at sunset, what can you expect for tomorrow's weather? A. It will probably be warmer. B. The weather may shift and more cumulus might develop. C. Bright, hot sunshine

Photography by Michael DeYoung. Michael DeYoung was an Air Force meteorologist for 12 years in Montana and Alaska. He is now a professional adventure photographer who spends the majority of his time in Alaska and New Mexico.